1.0 Purpose / Principle
To describe processes, guidelines and good practices for using the
mailing list CLSEDUC and, in particular, for replying to list messages
A well functioning list contributes to the well being of all
subscribers. A dysfunctional list results in bloated archives, needless
waste of scarce resources including subscriber time, dissatisfied
clients, and potential for embarrassing, private messages to become
public.
2.0 Scope and Related Policies
2.1. This SOP relates to all CLSEDUC subscribers.
2.2. Each subscriber should review
list netiquette at least once per
month:
3.0 Specimens
3.1. Well motivated, astute clinical laboratory educators
3.2. Related "odds & sods" interested in education
4.0 Materials
4.1. Computer
4.2. Monitor
4.3. Mouse
4.4. Internet connection
5.0 Quality Control / Management
5.1. Posting a reply (or an original message) should be done only
when subscribers have something substantive to contribute that is
relevant to the entire group.
5.2. When hitting REPLY, subscribers must delete the list address if
the response is a private message meant only for the original sender.
5.3. A List Event Reporting System (LERS) exists in which list
owners monitor posts and, if applicable, "round up the usual subjects."
The system takes a blame-free approach that is never punitive and always
educational.
6.0 Procedure & Procedural Notes
6.1. Put brain in gear.
6.2. Hit REPLY and in the To: line immediately delete either the
list address or the sender's address.
Note 6.2 #1: Do not send private replies to the entire list.
Instead, delete the list address.
Note 6.2 #2: To prevent senders from getting 2 identical
replies, delete their address. They will get your reply since they are
subscribers.
6.3. If applicable, give the message a new subject line.
Note 6.3 #1: Identical subject lines keep all posts together in a
related "thread." However, sometimes a new subject line is warranted,
e.g., if the original subject line is blank or non-descriptive, or if
your reply introduces a related but different topic.
6.4. Delete prior message. If relevant, write something like, "Chris
asked about..." followed by your reply.
Note 6.4 #1: If you keep the prior message to guide your reply,
you must delete it after Step. 6.5.
6.5. Compose response (and delete prior message if not done
earlier).
6.6. Review response asking these questions:
6.6.1. Do I have something useful to contribute?
6.6.2. Is the subject line descriptive?
6.6.3. Have I deleted the
sender's address (or list address if message is private),
as appropriate?
6.6.4. Have I deleted the prior message?
6.6.5. Is my reply concise and clear?
6.6.6. Have I identified myself via a concise signature?
6.7. Hit SEND.
7.0 Reporting
7.1. Replies to all questions in 6.6 should be Yes.
7.2. Keep a copy of the message at least until it appears on the
list.
8.0 References
